If you work in a busy and very physical industry, as many of those reading this post do, you know how hard it can be to take a break. We need rest breaks for many reasons, but among them is the opportunity to rehydrate. Just like many forklifts, we need to maintain proper fluid levels to operate properly as well! Water is essential to our bodies and therefore essential to our work.
As we head into warmer months, it is important that you remind not only yourself, but your employees of the importance of self-maintenance in order to be able to perform equipment maintenance. In addition to ensuring your knowledge is current on the topic, it is essential to provide guidelines and proper resources for your employees. Consider a water service or bottled water, especially during the summer when warehouse, construction, and factory conditions often deteriorate.
With just a bit of research, it is easy to find that the old saying about drinking eight cups of water each day is not quite correct. Back in the 1980’s doctors began telling people that eight cups was a good starting goal for water consumption, but there was no scientific research to back up their claims. Today, we know that the amount needed varies from person to person.
Either way, the point is clear, water does wonders for your body, and your brain. Water helps to cleanse your body of harmful chemicals so that they don’t build up in your system, leaving you sick. Without proper water intake, our bodies break down very quickly, in a matter of days in fact.
4 Quick Tips For Taking In More Water
1. Always Have Water Available
Whether you buy bottled water, keep a water cooler on hand, or simply hit the water fountain regularly throughout the day, make sure that you have a source of good, clean drinking water that you can access as needed. If you are heading outside in the heat, try to keep a bottle with you. Many forklifts have cup holders available so you can drop a bottle right in and have it on hand. By keeping it close, you increase the likelihood of drinking more during the day.
2. Keep It Cool
While drinking extremely cold water during a hot day can sometimes lead to cramping, having cool water on hand can be beneficial. Not only does it help hydrate you, but it can help you to cool off as you will be able to sweat properly.
3. Choose Water At Mealtimes
Whether you and the crew go out for lunch, or relax in the break room, make sure that you drink water with your meals. If you are looking for a way to switch things up, simply add a squeeze of lemon to your bottle.
4. Bottled Water Can Help
Many of us do not like the taste of our tap water. Picking up a flat of bottled water and keeping a few in the fridge is a good way to remember to drink more water. Just make sure that the brand you choose does not include harmful chemicals in the composition of their plastic bottles.
Give water a shot and your body will be thankful! The first step in taking care of business involves taking care of yourself. Remember that at The Forklift Pro we are here for you. If you have questions on what your lift equipment requires for proper operation, contact us or give us a call today!